Although Melania Trump and 11-year-old Barron have moved in with him, the nation’s 45th president remains the first pet-less U.S. leader in 150 years. This is, as we have noted, a lost opportunity for bipartisan appeal and good press.

Fortunately, Vice President Pence’s swelling menagerie is there to fill the presidential pet void. Over the weekend, the Pences added a puppy and a kitten to their brood, which already included a rabbit named Marlon Bundo, a cat named Pickle and a hive full of anonymous bees. (Another Pence cat, Oreo, passed away earlier this month.)

The arrivals of Australian shepherd Harley and gray tabby Hazel were, of course, heralded by adorable photos on social media.

Speaking of Marlon: Pence spokesman Marc Lotter deemed Harley the nation’s “Second Dog,” which seems a bit unfair. There is no First Dog, after all. And if the rabbit is BOTUS, shouldn’t Harley be DOTUS?

New Second Dog – Harley – got his first ride on Air Force Two with @VP. Next exploring the grounds & house at Vice President’s Residence. pic.twitter.com/opmERCsii2

The absence of a White House dog would also seem to eliminate “Vice Dog” as a possibility. Perhaps the right title is “Honorary First Dog?” Maybe “Substitute First Dog.” (Pundits and political opponents who argue that Trump is deserving of impeachment might prefer “First Dog-In-Waiting,” though that is not really what “in-waiting” means.)

In any case, bestowing the proper titles on the new Pence pets is a confusing endeavor. It would be far easier if Trump would simply get a dog.

Karin BrulliardKarin Brulliard is a national reporter who runs the Animalia blog. Previously, she was an international news editor; a foreign correspondent in South Africa, Pakistan and Israel; and a local reporter. She joined The Post in 2003. Follow

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